Refractive error in vernal catarrh at tertiary care hospital: a cross-sectional observational study.

Manisha Gupta; Shreshtha Sharda; Vaishnavi Singh; Vatsala Vats

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i2.2495

Authors

Dr Manisha Gupta Professor, MS Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Shri GuruRam Rai Institute of Medical Sciences
Dr Shreshtha Sharda Resident, Department of Ophthalmology, Shri GuruRam Rai Institute of Medical Sciences
Dr Vaishnavi Singh Resident, Department of Ophthalmology, Shri GuruRam Rai Institute of Medical Sciences
Dr Vatsala Vats Professor, MS Ophthalmology, Shri GuruRam Rai Institute of Medical Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i2.2495

Keywords:

VKC, Refractive Error, Myopia, Hypemetropia

Abstract

Background:
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic, recurrent allergic disease of the ocular surface that predominantly affects children and adolescents. Limited literature exists on its association with other refractive errors, such as myopia and hypermetropia. Understanding this association is essential to prevent avoidable visual impairment and amblyopia during the critical period of visual development.

Methods:
This hospital-based cross-sectional observational study included children aged 5–18 years diagnosed clinically with VKC. Detailed demographic data and ocular examination findings were recorded. Visual acuity was assessed, intraocular pressure and central corneal thickness were measured, and slit-lamp examination was performed to evaluate conjunctival and corneal changes. Refractive status was assessed using autorefractometry followed by cycloplegic retinoscopy and subjective acceptance. The results were analysed by SPSS software. Data from 100 patients were analysed and expressed as percentages.

Results:
In this study of 100 children, the majority were aged 16–18 years (36%), and males predominated (71%). Bilateral involvement was seen in 32% of cases. Myopia was the most common refractive error (48%), followed by hypermetropia (24%), while 28% were emmetropic. Among myopes, mild myopia was most frequent (45.8%), with similar prevalence between males and females.

Conclusion:
Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is strongly associated with refractive errors, particularly myopia, in children. Routine refractive evaluation should be an integral part of VKC management to ensure early detection and timely correction, thereby improving visual outcomes and quality of life.

Recommendation

This study highlights the need for early detection and timely correction of refractive errors, which are essential to prevent amblyopia, optimize visual development, and improve academic performance and quality of life.

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